What is the correct care for drains?
top Drains allow fluid to move from underneath the skin to the outside world and help to prevent accumulation of fluid pockets that can result in delayed wound healing or infection. There are two main types of drains: closed suction drains (e.g. Jackson-Pratt drains) that drain fluid into an enclosed container, or passive open drains (e.g. Penrose) drains that allow fluid to drain into a bandage or material covering the drain area. If your patient goes home with a drain please make sure to bring your pet in for bandage changes or drain rechecks based on the schedule in your pet’s discharge instructions. Typically drains remain in place until the fluid production wanes to a sufficient degree to warrant removal of these drains. This period is usually 1-4 days after the surgery.
